Private Pilot Flight Training and Instruction Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM Holding Patterns IFR The shape of the holding pattern was based upon a requirement that older gyro instruments be allowed to settle down in a turn. The one minute straight legs gave the gyros the time to settle down before beginning another turn. A holding pattern of continuous turns would cause precession and unreliable indications. Written by Gene Whitt Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM